VICTORY

The Vic Furlan story

an inspirational battle to win at life

by Graeme Wilson

Vic Furlan

AN ORDINARY MAN’S EXTRAORDINARY TALE OF STRENGTH AND COURAGE

As an amateur boxer in his youth, Vic Furlan became well accustomed to rolling with the punches. But the blow he received on a chilly April evening in 2000 buckled his legs and almost dropped him to his knees.

Opening his front door to a policeman standing before him, he instinctively knew it was terrible news about his triathlete son Mark. Just minutes from the end of a long training ride, Mark had been hit by a car and the outlook was not good. Vic and wife Helen joined their embattled son on an urgent flight to New Zealand’s foremost hospital for serious head injuries.

“Not Mark too,” Vic thought as the plane lifted off and his mind flashed back to an earlier tragedy involving the couple’s only other child. Thirteen years previously, Mark’s much-loved sister, Vicki, had drowned in a tragic accident where she was trapped in her car in a swollen river. For Vic, this latest police visit was like a cruel déjà vu.

Then tragically, 10 days after he was hit, the gut-wrenching decision was made to turn off Mark’s life support. Unbelievably, both of Vic’s children were gone. For many, maybe even most, this heartbreak would have destroyed their will to live, but Vic Furlan had already overcome a lifetime of setbacks and challenges and he wasn’t about to quit now.

VICTORY is the inspirational story of an ordinary man who has shown extraordinary strength to meet life’s cruel twists and turns head-on with courage and dignity.

It’s quite the journey. Enjoy the ride!

Vic with attendees

Rare insight into one man's endurance

Large turnout for book launch

More than 100 friends and family of the author and his subject gathered in Papamoa, New Zealand for the launch of VICTORY: The Vic Furlan Story.

The common theme from speakers was how inspirational Vic had been in their lives, and how they hoped others would benefit from reading his life story and following his advice on overcoming adversity.

Vic lost children Mark and Vicki in separate road accidents, and the book documents his refusal to succumb to the overwhelming grief involved.

Instead, he has repeatedly shown his determination to continue to live life to the fullest, and help others facing similar challenges.

Nephew Richard O’Kane told the gathering his beloved uncle was the epitome of resilience, and said the book captured his life beautifully.

“You should be really proud of this book, it’s brilliant. We’ve seen your strength and courage over the years and it has been truly inspiring,” Richard said.

Long-time friend Kerry Rodger agreed, and was thrilled Vic could be there to experience the love of so many present.

“Too often, this type of gathering is held after someone has passed and we’re all saying nice things about them when they’re no longer with us to hear our words. You’re here today to hear how much you’re loved, and that’s so much better,” Kerry said.

Graeme and Vic Attendee and Vic Attendee and Vic Attendee on penny-farthing Vic with penny-farthing Vic with attendees
Author Graeme Wilson

About the author

Graeme Wilson began his writing career in the late 1970s as a junior reporter on the Rotorua Daily Post. After a long and varied career in media, Graeme has published his first book - VICTORY. He hopes there are more to come. Now in semi-retirement, he divides his time between Tauranga and Brisbane, with family in both cities. A keen runner and hiker, his aim these days is to stay literally one step ahead of Father Time. So far, so good.

A remarkable tale of resilience, and triumph over life's twists and turns.

Lawrence

A great New Zealand story, beautifully written. Graeme has a wonderful way with words.

Jenny

A tribute to the human spirit and a willingness to strive for a brighter tomorrow, despite all hardships.

Zep

You captured the essence of Vic and his optimism. He has lived his life to the fullest, in spite of more than his share of adversity.

Roy

This riveting read captures the unbreakable spirit of a man whose poignant journey teaches us so much about cherishing life regardless of the adversities it presents.

JB

You have produced an inspiring story for anyone to pick up and read, and particularly those who are struggling with the tragic loss of a loved one.

Emma

The history of his life, and also of NZ during the war, is great history we don't want to lose as part of our country's heritage.

Sue

Congratulations on a wonderful read. Vic is such a wise man, an inspirational unsung hero with a message for us all.

Denise